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Surfside Girls
The Science of Surfing: A Surfside Girls Guide to the Ocean
Soon to be an Apple TV+ series!
The ocean is packed with plants, animals, water... and science! Ride the waves of knowledge with Sam and Jade as they explain all about the amazing wonders of the sea, and have a blast doing it.
Have you ever wondered why the ocean has waves? Why do the tides change with the moon? Can dolphins really "see" using sound? How does surfing actually work? And what can we do to protect the ocean?
Cresting from the pages of the beloved graphic novel series Surfside Girls, join best friends Sam & Jade — and Sam's little brother Peet — as they explore the AWESOME world of ocean science. From physics to marine biology to ecology to surfing lessons, there's so much to learn... with plenty of fun and jokes along the way! The Science of Surfing is the coolest way to take a beach vacation and learn at the same time.
The ocean is packed with plants, animals, water... and science! Ride the waves of knowledge with Sam and Jade as they explain all about the amazing wonders of the sea, and have a blast doing it.
Have you ever wondered why the ocean has waves? Why do the tides change with the moon? Can dolphins really "see" using sound? How does surfing actually work? And what can we do to protect the ocean?
Cresting from the pages of the beloved graphic novel series Surfside Girls, join best friends Sam & Jade — and Sam's little brother Peet — as they explore the AWESOME world of ocean science. From physics to marine biology to ecology to surfing lessons, there's so much to learn... with plenty of fun and jokes along the way! The Science of Surfing is the coolest way to take a beach vacation and learn at the same time.
112 pages, Paperback
Published December 14, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 5, 2022
A neat little primer on ocean science and how to surf. I appreciated the explanation of how waves work - even learned a thing or two! That said, I'm sure some of the technical terms and math will sail over a young reader's head.
Still, what would The Science of Surfing be without the actual science? Even if kids get bored with the graphs, they'll appreciate the list of cute ocean critters. And the gentle instructions for how to surf make it seem completely possible, even for a novice like me. A fun, fast, straightforward read that'll definitely be a bigger hit with younger readers.
Still, what would The Science of Surfing be without the actual science? Even if kids get bored with the graphs, they'll appreciate the list of cute ocean critters. And the gentle instructions for how to surf make it seem completely possible, even for a novice like me. A fun, fast, straightforward read that'll definitely be a bigger hit with younger readers.
March 12, 2025
⭐️4,5/5
I really enjoy this book. This book really is teaching me, but I didn’t feel “intimidated” at all. It feels really fun.
I’m 100% sure elementary school kids must be enjoy reading this graphic novel. The content suitable for intoducing science to children.
This book, interestingly, discusses from a physics perspective how waves are formed and what causes them, as well as from a biology perspective about animals in and around the sea. This book also teaches the technique of surfing correctly and safely and how important it is to protect the marine environment.
I really enjoy this book. This book really is teaching me, but I didn’t feel “intimidated” at all. It feels really fun.
I’m 100% sure elementary school kids must be enjoy reading this graphic novel. The content suitable for intoducing science to children.
This book, interestingly, discusses from a physics perspective how waves are formed and what causes them, as well as from a biology perspective about animals in and around the sea. This book also teaches the technique of surfing correctly and safely and how important it is to protect the marine environment.
February 8, 2022
Very short and concise, as the title predicts. In a way that's what I liked about the most -- it fulfills its promise (how many can say that, right?).
Having said I still don't know how to surf but I can certainly understand the lingo.
Catch you on the high tide.
Having said I still don't know how to surf but I can certainly understand the lingo.
Catch you on the high tide.
February 13, 2022
Overall, I thought it was a pretty accessible way to talk about science. A graphic novel style can make science easier to understand and not seem like work. Once again, there is no bibliography. This is becoming a HUGE sticking point for me when it comes to nonfiction. I do not care if you put a quote from scientist praising your book, because that is not the same thing as telling me where you got your information. Unless, you can find your information in three books, at least. This brings me to my next point.
On page 109, there is this line: "Plastic bottles in the ocean NEVER break down and will be there forever." I feel this is misleading. What do mean by plastic bottles never breaking down? To me, "never break down" implies the plastic bottle will always look like a plastic bottle and not even the physical form will break. That is not true. Waves and other physical forces can deformed the plastic bottle to not look like a bottle. Now if we are talking about "chemically" breaking down then that is a different story. I do not remember exactly what it was talking about, but there is a book called Apocalypse Never: Why Environmental Alarmism Hurts Us All by Michael Shellenberger. That mentions beads of plastic, which would be a forming of breaking down. So, I would like to know what the author meant by "never break down." Also, forever is a LONG time and nothing lasts forever, except God.
Verdict: This was a cute, accessible way to understand science. It may be helpful to read the actual fiction series or look up the characters on Kim Dwinell's website, because that will help to understand Robert. Yes, what Robert looks like is what he is.
On page 109, there is this line: "Plastic bottles in the ocean NEVER break down and will be there forever." I feel this is misleading. What do mean by plastic bottles never breaking down? To me, "never break down" implies the plastic bottle will always look like a plastic bottle and not even the physical form will break. That is not true. Waves and other physical forces can deformed the plastic bottle to not look like a bottle. Now if we are talking about "chemically" breaking down then that is a different story. I do not remember exactly what it was talking about, but there is a book called Apocalypse Never: Why Environmental Alarmism Hurts Us All by Michael Shellenberger. That mentions beads of plastic, which would be a forming of breaking down. So, I would like to know what the author meant by "never break down." Also, forever is a LONG time and nothing lasts forever, except God.
Verdict: This was a cute, accessible way to understand science. It may be helpful to read the actual fiction series or look up the characters on Kim Dwinell's website, because that will help to understand Robert. Yes, what Robert looks like is what he is.
September 25, 2022
Just to get it out of the way - I felt kind of skeevy reading this. It's apparently an offshoot of a series of teen-targeted mystery books, but the adolescent protagonists spend the entire book in bathing suits which, while thematically appropriate, still made me feel a little uncomfortable for reading it.
That being said, the book provides a lot of useful information and context around what waves are, why they exist, and the proper basics and preparations for surfing. I genuinely learned some new things, and it helped put other things I was aware of in a more understandable context. The characters' attempts at humor often fall flat, but the facts they share are interesting.
If you're a teenage reader, especially a female, then you can add a star to the rating. But if you have kids older than the characters, you might feel a bit self-conscious while reading this.
That being said, the book provides a lot of useful information and context around what waves are, why they exist, and the proper basics and preparations for surfing. I genuinely learned some new things, and it helped put other things I was aware of in a more understandable context. The characters' attempts at humor often fall flat, but the facts they share are interesting.
If you're a teenage reader, especially a female, then you can add a star to the rating. But if you have kids older than the characters, you might feel a bit self-conscious while reading this.
April 19, 2026
In the beginning, it was difficult for me to adapt to a "children's book narrative voice" in the story.
This book belongs to a series including the adventures of two friends, Jade and Sam, who live in California and love surfing and hanging around the beach. While apparently the other books focus more on entertaining stories, this is all about all the science around surfing, including tides, waves, and even the most common animals in their beaches' ecosystem.
I truly appreciated the information presented in a very accessible form of a children's book, and learned a lot, which made me want to have surfing classes even more!
Would recommend it to children and adults!
This book belongs to a series including the adventures of two friends, Jade and Sam, who live in California and love surfing and hanging around the beach. While apparently the other books focus more on entertaining stories, this is all about all the science around surfing, including tides, waves, and even the most common animals in their beaches' ecosystem.
I truly appreciated the information presented in a very accessible form of a children's book, and learned a lot, which made me want to have surfing classes even more!
Would recommend it to children and adults!
March 2, 2024
This Graphic Novel is AMAZING! I would definitely put this book in many different classrooms, especially 6th grade science. What is awesome about this book are the cross-discipline topics that each chapter presents. This book has one central theme: The Ocean. Each chapter looks at the ocean from multiple different perspectives. From the lenses of Physics, Biology, & Conservation this graphic novel would fit in any science or math classroom. You can even learn to surf in one of the chapters! This little book is jam packed with useful and fun information!
November 8, 2022
Even though this is a non-fictional look at the ocean, the connection with the Surfside Girls will have readers eager for it. And it's a very well-done surfer-centric guide to the ocean. The science behind tides, waves and sets; animals that live in the inter-tidal zone; animals that live in the deeps; sharks; environmental concerns. This book has it all. A great primer for those who love the ocean and would like to make a deeper connection.
March 9, 2023
It took me much longer to get through the first chapters of this than expected. The voice was very encyclopedic, but overall it's a great concept: part comic book, part surfing manual, part zoology guide. I enjoyed the illustrations and the scope of the material covered. The best endorsement came from my daughter, who said if she'd had this book when she was a teen, she'd have been begging to go surfing.
May 25, 2022
This book explains wonderfully the science of how the ocean waves work and how to surf. It also gives you a look into why it is important to keep the ocean and beaches clean. It explains the physics of surfing in an easy-to-understand way for inquisitive readers. This book is written in a graphic novel format which makes it a fast pace easier read for those who may struggle with reading.
October 2, 2023
I think every elementary school science class should have a copy of this book! What a great way to learn about science, the oceans, conservation, and, of course, surfing! The illustrations are darling, it’s so enjoyable to read, there’s so much to learn, and there are some very funny parts as well! This was just really enjoyable, and I love these two surfer girls!
December 26, 2021
This book is so so well done! Beautifully illustrated, informational, and humerous! The research was extremely thorough and accurate and presented in such a fun and easy to understand way! Every science education class and center needs to carry this book. Highly highly recommend go get it now!
July 6, 2022
A brilliant companion to the Surfside Girls series! Kim Dwinell does a stellar job of exploring the science behind surfing: what it is and how it works, told from the perspective of her two surfer kid protagonists. Its physics meet biology meets fun!
November 12, 2022
I can't wait to go surfing!!! I learned so much! I loved how this non-fiction graphic novel taught me all about the science of surfing and also included a helpful "how to surf" section. It was entertaining and very informational.
August 8, 2024
This was a decent introduction on the science of surfing. The art was good and everything was surface level on various topics. It felt more like a collection of pamphlets rather than one continuous journey.
January 4, 2022
Love the illustrations, but thought it was going to be more like the other books in the series. Please write more!
February 3, 2022
3.5 - great illustrations but the structure doesn't quite work for me.
February 13, 2022
A fun and educational book aimed at kids - I still learned a few things! The wildlife section is less applicable up the UK but the science of tides and waves is the same around the world.
February 23, 2022
Learn about ocean, waves, animals and surfing.
Really good book!
Really good book!
May 20, 2022
Cute book for kids to learn about surfing, the ocean & protecting the environment
June 6, 2022
3.5 stars. A lot of information about waves and oceans and surfing. Sometimes it felt like a bit too much, sometimes I was completely lost in the story. Great art, and lots of kid appeal.
July 3, 2022
I love the illustration style here. A great way to learn about the ocean and waves. And I love the younger brother with the jokes!
September 11, 2022
A cute little book about how to surf, ocean life, how to take care of the ocean, and how waves are made.
March 4, 2023
absolutely adorable. i love how one of them rides goofy like me <3 get the girls out in the water!
July 21, 2023
as someone who is obsessed with the ocean and surfing… i loved this so much!! this is perfect for younger kids who are really interested in those topics!
October 19, 2023
It wasn't what I was expecting, but it was ok.
March 23, 2024
want more. learn so much about the ocean. inspiration to swim and feel relaxed.
July 2, 2024
Thanks Sam and Jane for being a great help love your books!
Nice book love the different chapters about the ocean I am growing up loving the ocean thanks to you Sam and Jane
Nice book love the different chapters about the ocean I am growing up loving the ocean thanks to you Sam and Jane
March 20, 2026
Very cute book explaining the science of the ocean (waves, tides etc.) as well as a quick overview on the beginnings of surfing.
April 11, 2026
2026: I'm not the target audience, only read it because it was lying around.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews